Let your imagination soar with free education activities for all the family, provided by the Rochester Bridge Trust.
A part of Medway’s history will be celebrated alongside a selection of related educational activities when the newly restored Short Scion Floatplane G-AEZF goes on display inside Rochester Cathedral.
Painstakingly rebuilt by Medway Aircraft Preservation Society Limited (MAPSL) thanks to a grant from the Trust, the floatplane was made in the Short Brothers Factory that was once located on Rochester Esplanade.
Nicola Parks, Director of Charitable Projects at the Rochester Bridge Trust, said: “It gives us great pleasure to be able to display this piece of local aviation history in a stunning venue that’s easily accessed by the whole community.
“Alongside the floatplane there will be a range of educational activities to ensure there is something to appeal to all ages. This event will be completely free of charge during the day with the aim of celebrating engineering history while also inspiring the next generation of engineers.”
Constructed in 1937, the aircraft saw service in World War Two before becoming a civilian plane and then being left unused for decades so that it had deteriorated significantly. It was rescued by MAPSL in 2013, with a £40,000 grant from the Trust funding its restoration by the society’s volunteers.
Robin Heaps, MAPSL Project Leader, said: “After many years of work on this complex project we are all looking forward to seeing the Short Scion Floatplane on display inside Rochester Cathedral. We are grateful to the Rochester Bridge Trust for its generous grant and for making it as easy as possible for residents to experience for themselves this important part of Medway’s heritage.”
The floatplane will be on display in the cathedral for the whole of August 2025. It will be accompanied by a range of engineering education activities. Entry and participation are free during the day.
For more information visit www.rbt.org.uk/floatplane